Martinez savours ‘special’ first win as Leverkusen progress in DFB-Pokal

Syndicated reporting provided by Stats Perform and reviewed by the SoccerNews editorial team.

Carles Martinez described his first win in charge of Bayer Leverkusen as “special” after they cruised into the second round of the DFB-Pokal on Saturday. 

Martinez watched on as Leverkusen won 4-0 at BRITA-Arena against third-tier side Wehen Wiesbaden, with four different players getting themselves on the scoresheet. 

Leverkusen went ahead in the 43rd minute through Patrik Schick before Lucas Vazquez doubled the visitors’ lead two minutes after the restart. 

The win was sealed with two goals in 10 minutes from substitutes Nathan Tella and Christian Kofane, with last year’s semi-finalists comfortably progressing into the next round.

It was a dominant performance by Leverkusen, who finished with an expected goals (xG) total of 1.93 from 19 shots compared to Wiesbaden’s tally of 0.23 from seven attempts.

“I enjoyed my first game. It was very special. We have some things to improve, but the team was focused and the game was good,” Martinez said. 

A perfect away day in the #DFBPokal to kickstart the new season! #SVWWB04 pic.twitter.com/7uL16HAOtV

— Bayer 04 Leverkusen (@bayer04_en) August 22, 2026

Malik Tillman was among the standouts for Leverkusen, finishing with team-high totals for chances created (six), while summer signing Afonso Moreira also picked up an assist. 

Moreira, who joined from Lyon earlier in the transfer window, also had more shots (five) and touches in the opposition box (five) than any other Leverkusen player. 

Leverkusen begin their Bundesliga campaign against Elversberg next Saturday, as they look to improve on their sixth-place finish in the top flight last season. 

Bundesliga News

‘That itch isn’t there’ – Kane not focused on Premier League return

Bundesliga News

Leipzig want Christopher Nkunku back on loan

Bundesliga News

Ballon d’Or ‘as big as it gets’ for Kane

Bundesliga News

Kane ‘very relaxed’ over Bayern contract talks

Bundesliga News

Saibari yet to discuss Bayern role with Kompany

Bundesliga News

Tillman remains open to Leverkusen exit after ‘worst’ season of his career

We use cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. By using our website you agree to our use of cookies in accordance with our Privacy Policy.